Anyone between the ages of 17-66, who is in general good health, can volunteer to give blood (if you are a current donor, you can donate until you are 70 years of age). But first we want to make sure that we are taking the best care of you. Please make sure you have eaten before donating. While almost anyone can give blood, please remember there are a few exceptions. There are two main reasons why you shouldn't give blood:
1 - If giving blood could affect your own good health, for example:
- If you are pregnant or have been pregnant within the last year
- If you have certain medical conditions or are taking certain types of medication
- If you have had surgery in the past 12 months
- If you weigh less than 7st 12lbs (50kg)
- If you are under the age of 17 or over the age of 66 (70 for current donors)
- If you have been at the dentist within the past 24 hours
2 - If your blood could transmit an infection to the person who receives it, for example:
- If you have visited a foreign country within the last 12 months where you may have been exposed to malaria, such as parts of Africa or South America
- If you have ever injected drugs
- If your lifestyle puts you at risk of HIV or hepatitis
- If you have had ear /body piercing or a tattoo within the last year
- If you have received, or think you may have received, a blood transfusion in the UK since 1980
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We don't want you to waste your journey, so please call us in advance if you have any queries about your medical history at all. One of our qualified health care professionals will give you confidential advice over the phone.
0845 30 17 2 70 |
